Steering Knuckle for a Vehicle

ABSTRACT

A steering knuckle to be used with the steering assembly of a vehicle such as a farming tractor is disclosed. The steering knuckle comprises preconfigured attachment areas where attachment element(s) or bracket(s) can be releasably yet rigidly secured. The attachment areas may be further reinforced with additional knuckle material (e.g. metal, metallic alloy). The steering knuckle therefore provides predetermined and preconfigured attachment location(s) where a wheel-replacing track system can be secured, thereby allowing the track system to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient or weak locations.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present patent application is a divisional application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/668,801, entitled “Steering Knuckle for aVehicle” and filed at the United States Patent and Trademark Office onMar. 25, 2015; the content of which is incorporated herein by reference,which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/724,111, entitled “Steering Knuckle for a Vehicle” and filedat the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Dec. 21, 2012; thecontent of which is incorporated herein by reference, which claims thebenefits of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/579,701, entitled “Steering Knuckle for a Vehicle” and filed at theUnited States Patent and Trademark Office on Dec. 23, 2011, the contentof which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to steering knuckles (alsoreferred to as steering housings) and more particularly to steeringknuckles usually used with the front axles of heavy vehicles such as,but not limited to, agricultural vehicles, construction vehicles,industrial vehicles, and forestry vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Soil compaction and floatation have always been important issues forfarmers operating tractors and other farming vehicles in their fields.It has thus been found advantageous to replace two or even all fourwheels of a farming tractor with track systems which use endlesstraction bands instead of wheels for propulsion.

Using track systems instead of wheels brings several advantages whenoperated on soft terrains. The larger surface area of the traction bandsimproves the floatation and reduces soil compaction. The configurationof the track systems also generally improves the overall traction of thetractor.

However, tractors are still typically sold with wheels and are typicallyconfigured to be operated with wheels. Hence, when an operator wants toreplace the wheels of its tractor with track systems, the track systemsmust be properly fitted to the model of tractor of the operator.However, as track systems are typically aftermarket products, tracksystem manufacturers must generally manufacture attachment brackets madespecifically for each model of tractors, or more generally, for eachmodel of vehicles, to which the track systems can be installed. However,having to manufacture specific attachment brackets for each model oftractors can be quite expensive.

Furthermore, tractors are typically not configured to be equipped withtrack systems. Hence, mounting track systems to a tractor generallynecessitates the attachment of the track systems to the tractor atlocations which, in some case, were not initially designed to supportand sustain the additional load and strain imparted by the track systemsduring use.

This is true of track systems installed as replacement of steerablewheels, typically the front wheels, since the track systems need toremain steerable. Hence, the installation generally involves theattachment of the track systems to or near the steering knuckles (e.g.to the wheel hubs, to the bolts holding the kingpin, etc.).

However, as the steering knuckles of a tractor are generally not madenor configured to support track systems, these installations may, insome cases, cause premature wearing of steering components of thetractor or even premature failure of those components. Theseinstallations can also cause premature wearing of components of thetrack systems (i.e. the traction band, road wheels, idler wheels, etc.)due, for instance, to misalignment between the track systems and thevehicle.

Hence, despite the advantages of using track systems on farming tractorsand other vehicles, there are still some shortcomings that need to beaddressed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

At least some of the shortcomings of the prior art steering knuckles andsteering assemblies regarding the installation of track systems aregenerally mitigated by a steering knuckle comprising at least onepredetermined and preconfigured attachment area configured to releasablyyet rigidly received one or more attachment elements which support atrack system.

A steering knuckle in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention generally comprises an inner or interior region which normallyfaces the vehicle, an outer or exterior region which normally faces awayfrom the vehicle, and a periphery or perimeter which generally comprisesa front region, a rear region, an upper or top region and a lower orbottom region.

Understandably, the exact configuration of the steering knuckle istypically dictated by the configuration of the steering assembly, andalso possibly by the configuration of the suspension assembly, of theparticular vehicle or vehicles to which the steering knuckle is to beinstalled. In that sense, the inner region may be particularlyconfigured to be properly connected to the steering assembly, and alsopossibly to the suspension assembly, of the vehicle.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the steeringknuckle comprises at least one though typically several attachmentareas. These attachment areas are typically, though not necessarily,flat, and are typically, though not necessarily, provided withfastener-receiving openings (e.g. threaded bolt bores).

These attachment areas are generally configured to releasably yetrigidly receive one or more attachment elements or brackets used tosecure the track system to the steering knuckle. In that sense, theregions of the steering knuckle where the attachment areas are located,or even the whole steering knuckle, may be made bigger and/or thicker,in other words, reinforced, to support the different and/or additionalloads transmitted to the attachment areas during use. Other regions ofthe steering knuckle could also be reinforced if necessary.

A steering knuckle in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention therefore generally allows a more robust and possibly moreconvenient installation of a track system to a vehicle since thesteering knuckle is physically configured to properly receive theattachment element(s) use to install the track system to the steeringknuckle and is physically configured to properly support the loadimparted by the track system installed thereto.

Furthermore, by providing predetermined and preconfigured attachmentareas, the steering knuckle in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention avoids the installation of the track system atinconvenient or weak locations on the vehicle, thereby generallypreventing premature wearing or even failure at these locations.

According to a principle of the present invention, the knuckle maycomprise an inner side configured to be coupled to a steering assemblyto communicate a steering constraint around a vertical axis to a tracksystem attached thereto, an opening configured to receive a powerdriving mechanism and a periphery comprising several attachment areas,each of the attachment areas being configured to mate with an attachmentelement. Accordingly, at least one of the attachment areas is configuredto secure the track system to the attachment area with fasteners, andthe orientation of an axis normal to at least one of the fasteners isbetween about 30 and 150 degrees from the vertical axis.

According to a principle of the present invention, the steering knucklefor use with a steering assembly of a vehicle equipped with a tracksystem, may comprise, a main portion having an inner side configured tobe coupled to a steering assembly to communicate a steering constraintaround a vertical axis to a track system attached thereto and an openingconfigured to receive a power driving mechanism and an attachmentportion, located underneath and integrated to the main portion, theattachment portion having at least one attachment area configured tomate with an attachment element, the attachment element is configured topivotally secure the track system to the attachment areas withfasteners.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the track system ispivotally mounted to the knuckle attachment portion using an elongatedmember for allowing the track system to pivot longitudinally about theelongated member. Furthermore, the steering knuckle may have anattachment portion comprising a groove for at least partially receivingthe elongated member therein. According to yet another aspect of thepresent invention, the attachment portion comprise an inwardlyprotruding portion having at least one attachment area located thereto.The attachment portion may comprise an outwardly protruding portionhaving at least one attachment area located thereto.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the steeringknuckle comprises an inwardly and an outwardly protruding portion andwhere one or both of the inwardly and outwardly protruding portions havea downwardly protruding portion defining a longitudinal channel forreceiving the track system. The attachment areas generally have at leastone opening defining a vertical axis being laterally offset from an axisalong a kingpin securing the steering knuckle to the vehicle. Theattachment portion may further comprise an inwardly and an outwardlyprotruding portion and wherein at least one of the inwardly andoutwardly protruding portion projects laterally outside of the mainportion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the steering knuckleattachment area may be located on either side of the groove on both alaterally inwardly protruding portion and a laterally outwardlyprotruding portion. The attachment area may also be configured so thatthe attachment element can be upwardly fastened thereto.

According to an embodiment, the steering knuckle has a main portion andan attachment portion that are unitary.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the steering knucklefor use with a steering assembly of a vehicle equipped with a tracksystem, comprises, an inner side configured to be coupled to a steeringassembly to communicate a steering constraint around a vertical axis toa track system attached thereto, an opening configured to receive apower driving mechanism; and a periphery comprising an inner regioninwardly facing the vehicle and an outer region facing outwardly fromthe vehicle. The steering knuckle generally has at least one attachmentarea located on said outer periphery and configured to mate with atleast one attachment element, the at least one attachment element itselfconfigured to secure the track system to the attachment area.Accordingly, at least one of the inner and outer regions of the steeringknuckle comprises at least one attachment area.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the attachment areas ofthe steering knuckle's inner region of are located about the periphery.The steering knuckle may also further have a stub and attachment areasof the outer region located about the stub and parallel thereto. Theattachment areas of the outer region may also be disposed to surroundthe stub. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thestub is preferably outwardly spaced to prevent hindrance between theattachment element and a wheel hub mounted to the stub. The outer regionof the steering knuckle may also have an outwardly protruding portionsurrounding the stub. Furthermore, the attachment area generally hasfastener receiving slots, and wherein the fasteners receiving slots havea lengths equal to the thickness of the knuckle. The inner regions mayalso comprise attachment areas surrounding the opening. Such attachmentareas are generally designed for receiving fasteners inserted from theinside out.

According to an aspect of the present invention, it is disclosed avehicle comprising left and right steering assemblies. The vehiclegenerally comprising a pair of steering knuckles respectively mounted tothe left and right steering assemblies. It is to be understood that,though applicable to agricultural vehicle, the steering knuckledescribed herein may also be applied to smaller wheeled vehiclesusceptible to have track assemblies mounted there to, such as but notlimited to ATV, UTV, OHV, etc.

Other and further aspects and advantages of the present invention willbe obvious upon an understanding of the illustrative embodiments aboutto be described or will be indicated in the appended claims, and variousadvantages not referred to herein will occur to one skilled in the artupon employment of the invention in practice. The features of thepresent invention which are believed to be novel are set forth withparticularity in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the inventionwill become more readily apparent from the following description,reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary left side perspective view of the farmingtractor equipped with the steering knuckle of FIG. 1, and furthercomprising an exploded track system without the endless traction band.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary left side view of the farming traction of FIG.1, further comprising a track system, without the endless traction band,attached to the knuckle.

FIG. 4 is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farming tractorequipped with another embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 10.

FIG. 17A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having angledattachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 17B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17C is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17D is a top exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A is a top plan view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18B is a perspective view along the A-A axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18C is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18D is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18E is a perspective view along the B-B axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18F is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18G is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18H is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18I is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18J is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having angledattachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 19B is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19C is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19D is an exterior exploded view of the farming tractor equippedwith an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20B is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20C is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20D is a perspective view along the A-A axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20E is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20F is a perspective view along the B-B axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20G is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20H is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20I is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20J is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having topattachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 21B is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 21C is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 21D is an exterior exploded view of the farming tractor equippedwith an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22E is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22G is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having angledtop attachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 23B is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 23C is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 23D is an exterior exploded view of the farming tractor equippedwith an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24E is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24F is a perspective view along the A-A axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 24E.

FIG. 24G is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24H is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24I is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having angledtop attachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 25B is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 25C is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 25D is a fragmentary front exploded view of the farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26E is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26F is a perspective view along the A-A axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 26E.

FIG. 26G is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26H is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 26I is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 26A.

FIG. 27A is a fragmentary left side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle having lateralattachment area in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIG. 27B is an exploded view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 27A.

FIG. 27C is a fragmentary front exploded view of the farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 27A.

FIG. 28A is a bottom view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 27A.

FIG. 28B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 29A is a fragmentary right side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 29B is a fragmentary right side perspective view of the farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 29C is a bottom view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 30H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 31A is a fragmentary right side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 31B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 31A.

FIG. 32A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 31A.

FIG. 32B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 32H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 33A is a fragmentary right side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 33B is a perspective view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 33C is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 33D is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 33E is a top exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 34A is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 34B is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34F is a perspective view along the A-A axis of the steeringknuckle of FIG. 34E.

FIG. 34G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34H is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 34I is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 35A is a fragmentary right side perspective view of a farmingtractor equipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 35B is an exterior view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 35C is a perspective exploded view of the farming tractor equippedwith an embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 35D is a front exploded view of the farming tractor equipped withan embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 36A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 36B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36E.

FIG. 36G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 37A is a fragmentary right exterior view of a farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 37B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 37A.

FIG. 37C is a right exterior view of the farming tractor equipped withan embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 37A without the wheel hub.

FIG. 38A is a fragmentary right exterior view of a farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 38B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 38A.

FIG. 39A is a fragmentary right perspective view of a farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 39B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 39A.

FIG. 39C is a right exterior view of the farming tractor equipped withan embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 39A without the wheel hub.

FIG. 39D is a right exterior view of the farming tractor equipped withan embodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 39A.

FIG. 40A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 39A.

FIG. 40B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 40H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 40A.

FIG. 41A is a fragmentary right perspective view of a farming tractorequipped with an embodiment of a steering knuckle in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 41B is an exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 41A.

FIG. 41C is a top exploded view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 41A without the wheel hub.

FIG. 41D is a top view of the farming tractor equipped with anembodiment of a steering knuckle of FIG. 41A.

FIG. 42A is a bottom view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 41A.

FIG. 42B is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42C is an interior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42D is a front view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42E is a top view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42F is a perspective view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42G is an exterior view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 42H is a rear view of the steering knuckle of FIG. 42A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A novel steering knuckle for a vehicle will be described hereinafter.Although the invention is described in terms of specific illustrativeembodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments describedherein are by way of example only and that the scope of the invention isnot intended to be limited thereby.

Broadly, steering knuckles in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention can be used on vehicles, such as farming tractors,having either combined steering and suspension assemblies or havingrigid axle with steering assembly.

Referring first to FIGS. 1 to 9, a first embodiment of a steeringknuckle 100 in accordance with the principles of the present inventionis illustrated.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the steering knuckle 100 is illustrated asnormally installed to the front left steering and suspension assembly 12of a vehicle 10. In FIG. 1, the vehicle 10 is a farming tractor commonlyused on farms. Still, the steering knuckle 100 could be used on othervehicles having similar steering and suspension assembly.

The knuckle 100 is typically coupled to the steering and suspensionassembly 12 via ball joints (or other pivotal arrangements). As it willshown in greater details below, the steering knuckle 100 is alsoconfigured to receive the drive shaft (not shown) of the vehicle 10 andto support the planetary gear assembly which drives the wheel hub 14 towhich the wheel (not shown) of the vehicle 10 is normally mounted.

Though not shown, a right steering knuckle 100, which is substantially aminor image of the left steering knuckle 100 shown in FIG. 1, is alsoinstalled on the right side of the vehicle 10. As both the left side andthe right side knuckles 100 are substantially identical, aside frombeing minor images of each other, only the left side knuckle 100 will bedescribed below.

Though the knuckle 100 could be an original component, it is typically areplacement or an aftermarket component used to replace the originalknuckle of the vehicle 10. It remains that a vehicle could be initiallyequipped with knuckles 100 such as to make the vehicle “track ready”.

Referring now to FIG. 2 and more particularly to FIGS. 4 to 9, thesteering knuckle 100 will be described in more details.

Broadly, the steering knuckle 100 can be seen as comprising an outerside 110 which normally faces away from the vehicle 10, an inner side120 which normally faces the vehicle 10, and an overall periphery orperipheral surface 105 which generally comprises front and rear regions130 and 140, and top and bottom regions 150 and 160.

Notably, as can be seen in FIG. 4, the peripheral surface 105 of thesteering knuckle 100 is not regular and its exact shape can vary widelyaccording to the vehicle or vehicles for which the steering knuckle isdesigned for. Hence, the term front, top, rear and bottom used withrespect to the regions of the peripheral surface 105 of the steeringknuckle 100 must not be construed with geometric exactness.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 6, the steering knuckle 100 also comprisesa stub 170 outwardly extending from the outer side 110. The stub 170 isconfigured to support the planetary gear assembly which drives the wheelhub 14 best shown in FIG. 1. To provide proper support between theplanetary gear assembly and the stub 170, the circumference of the stub170 is provided with axially extending splines 172. As best shown inFIG. 4 (and also in FIG. 5), the stub 170 defines an opening 174 throughwhich can extend the drive shaft (not shown) of the vehicle 10.Understandably, the configuration of the stub 170 must match theconfiguration of the stub on the original knuckle replaced by theknuckle 100. In that sense, other embodiments of steering knuckles inaccordance with the principles of the present invention could beprovided without stub 170 if the original knuckle does not have a stubor if the driving system of the vehicle 10 does not require a stub.

Referring to FIG. 5, the inner side 120 of the steering knuckle isconfigured to accommodate the ball joints of the suspension and steeringassembly 12 of the vehicle 10. In that sense, the inner side 120comprises upper recess 122 and lower recess 124. Upper recess 122 isconfigured for accommodating the ball joint (not shown) located at theend of the upper control arm 16 of the suspension and steering assembly12. Upper recess 122 also comprises an opening 152 extending to theupper region 150 (see also FIG. 8). Opening 152 is configured to receivethe rod (not shown) supporting the upper ball joint (not shown).Similarly, lower recess 124 is configured for accommodating the balljoint (not shown) located at the end of the lower control arm 18 of thesuspension and steering assembly 12. Lower recess 124 also comprises anopening 162 extending to the lower region 160 (see also FIG. 9). Opening162 is configured to receive the rod (not shown) supporting the lowerball joint (not shown).

The inner side 120 also comprises an outwardly extending lug 126, havingan opening 127 therethrough, for receiving the end of the steering arm20 of the suspension and steering assembly 12.

Understandably, as the configuration of the suspension and steeringassembly 12 differs on different vehicles, the inner side 120 istypically designed or customized to fit one or more specific vehicles(or vehicle configurations). Other embodiments of steering knuckles inaccordance with the principles of the present invention could thereforehave different inner side configurations to fit different configurationsof suspension and steering assemblies. Hence, when the steering knuckleis used as a replacement, the inner side of the steering knuckle willtypically substantially replicate the inner side of the steering knuckleit is configured to replace.

Referring now more particularly to FIGS. 2, 6, 7 and 9, in the firstembodiment, the knuckle 100 comprises three attachment areas 135, 145and 165. In the present embodiment, the attachment areas 135, 145 and165 are respectively located on the front region 130, the rear region140, and the bottom region 160.

Understandably, in other embodiments, there could be more, or less,attachment areas, and the attachment areas could be located elsewhere onthe steering knuckle. For instance, in some embodiments, there could bean attachment area on the top region 150. Also, in some embodiments, anattachment area could extend over more than one regions (e.g. over thefront and bottom regions, over the rear and bottom regions, etc.). Inaddition, in some embodiments, an attachment area could be located atthe junction of two regions. Further still, in some embodiments, most,if not all, the peripheral surface could comprise attachment areas suchas to allow the attachment elements to fully circumscribe the knuckle.

As can be seen from the figures, in the first embodiment, the attachmentareas 135, 145 and 165 are generally flat such as to easily accommodateattachment elements or brackets 330, 340 and 360 (see FIGS. 2 and 3)having flat mating surfaces 332, 342 and 362 respectively. Still, inother embodiments, the attachment areas could be other than flat. Forinstance, the attachment areas 135, 145 and 165 and the mating surfaces332, 342 and 362 of the attachment elements 330, 340 and 360 could havecomplementary configurations (e.g. male/female configurations,complementary toothed configurations, mortise and tenon configurations,etc.). Also, in the first embodiment, the attachment areas 135, 145 and165 are respectively provided with fastener-receiving openings or bores136/137, 146/147 and 166. In the first embodiment, these bores arethreaded bolt-receiving bores. Understandably, in other embodiments,other fasteners or attachment mechanisms could be used to secure theattachment elements to the attachment areas (e.g. dowels, pins, keys,clamps, etc.).

As best shown in FIG. 2, by having these predetermined attachment areas135, 145 and 165, the front region 130, the rear region 140 and thebottom region 160 provide predetermined locations on the steeringknuckle 100 where a track system 300 (shown exploded in FIG. 2) caneasily yet rigidly be secured.

In that sense, in the first embodiment, to mount the track system 300 tothe steering knuckle 100, the track system 300 only needs attachmentelements 330, 340 and 360. These attachment elements 330, 340 and 360have bolt holes patterns which respectively match the bore patterns ofthe attachments areas 135, 145 and 165 such that they can easily besecured to the attachment areas 135, 145 and 165 of the steering knuckle100 using bolts (see FIG. 2).

To provide additional rigidity, the attachment elements 330, 340, 360may further be configured to be fastened together as shown in FIGS. 2and 3. Still, in other embodiments, the attachment elements 330, 340,360 could be unitary and form a single attachment element.

Understandably, by having these predetermined attachment areas 135, 145and 165, the steering knuckle 100 allows the installation of awheel-replacing track system 300 more easily and more solidly. Indeed,the predetermined attachment areas 135, 145 and 165 providepredetermined locations on the steering knuckle 100 to secure theattachment elements 330, 340 and 360 needed to secure the track system300 to the vehicle 10. By providing these predetermined locations, thepresent steering knuckle 100 avoids the need to secure the track system300 at inconvenient or weak locations on the vehicle 10.

As an additional benefit, the predetermined attachment areas 135, 145and 165 on the steering knuckle 100 allows the wheel-replacing tracksystem 300 to be more properly aligned with respect to the vehicle 10.

In addition, since the steering knuckle 100 is configured to support thetrack system 300, the steering knuckle 100 is typically reinforced (e.g.made bigger and/or thicker), more particularly near or around theregions where the attachment areas 135, 145 and 165 are located. Otherregions of the steering knuckle 100 could also be reinforced ifnecessary. The additional material allows the steering knuckle 100 tosupport and sustain the additional load transmitted to the steeringknuckle 100 by the track system 300. Also, in some embodiments, theadditional material allows the standardization of the locations of theattachment areas.

Still, the steering knuckle 100 is preferably configured to remain onthe vehicle 10 as a regular knuckle when the track system 300 is removedand replaced by a regular wheel. In that sense, the steering knuckle 100is preferably configured not to interfere with the proper functioningand steering of the wheel of the vehicle 10 when wheels are used.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 to 16, a second embodiment of a steeringknuckle 600 in accordance with the principles of the present inventionis illustrated.

Referring first to FIG. 10, the steering knuckle 600 is illustrated asnormally installed to the front left steering assembly 512 of a vehicle510. Notably, while in FIG. 1, the steering knuckle 100 was mounted tosteering and suspension assembly 12, in FIG. 10, the vehicle 510 has arigid axle 522 without suspension assembly and thus, the steeringknuckle 600 is only mounted to the rigid axle 522 and the steeringassembly 512.

As in FIG. 1, in FIG. 10, the vehicle 510 is a common farming tractor.Still, the steering knuckle 600 could be used on other vehicles having asimilar steering configuration.

In the second embodiment, the steering knuckle 600 is typically coupledto the rigid axle 522 via a kingpin arrangement. It remains that thesteering knuckle 600 is also configured to receive the drive shaft (notshown) of the vehicle 510 and to support the planetary gear assemblywhich drives the wheel hub 514 to which the wheel (not shown) of thevehicle 510 is normally mounted.

Though not shown, a right steering knuckle 600, which is substantially amirror image of the left steering knuckle 600 shown in FIG. 10, is alsoinstalled on the right side of the vehicle 510. Since both the left sideand the right side knuckles 600 are substantially identical, aside frombeing minor images of each other, only the left side knuckle 600 will bedescribed below.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 to 16, the steering knuckle 600 generallycomprises an outer side 610, an inner side 620, and an overall peripheryor peripheral surface 605. The peripheral surface 605 broadly comprisesa front region 630, a rear region 640, a top region 650 and a bottomregion 660.

Notably, as can be seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, the peripheral surface 605of the steering knuckle 600 is clearly not regular and its exact shapecan vary widely according to the vehicle or vehicles for which thesteering knuckle 600 is designed for. Hence, the term front, top, rearand bottom used with respect to the regions of the peripheral surface605 of the steering knuckle 600 must not be construed with geometricexactness.

As can be seen in FIGS. 11 and 13, the steering knuckle 600 alsocomprises a stub 670 outwardly extending from the outer side 610. Thestub 670 is configured to support the planetary gear assembly whichdrives the wheel hub 514 best shown in FIG. 10. To provide propersupport between the planetary gear assembly and the stub 670, thecircumference of the stub 670 is provided with axially extending splines672. As best shown in FIG. 11 (and also in FIG. 12), the stub 670defines an opening 674 through which can extend the drive shaft (notshown) of the vehicle 510. Understandably, the configuration of the stub670 must match the configuration of the stub on the original knucklereplaced by the knuckle 600. In that sense, other embodiments ofsteering knuckles in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention could be provided without stub 670 if the original knuckledoes not have a stub or if the driving system of the vehicle 510 doesnot require a stub.

Referring to FIG. 12, the inner side 620 of the steering knuckle isconfigured to accommodate the kingpin (also referred to as “pivot axle”)assembly of the rigid axle 522 of the vehicle 510. In that sense, theinner side 620 comprises main recess 622. Main recess 622 is configuredfor accommodating the extremity of the axle 522 and the kingpinassembly. Main recess 622 also comprises an upper opening 652 extendingto the upper region 650 (see also FIG. 15) and a lower opening 662extending to the lower region 660 (see also FIG. 16). Upper opening 652is configured to receive the upper kingpin member (not shown) while thelower opening 662 is configured to receive the lower kingpin member (notshown).

Understandably, as the configuration of the steering assembly 512differs on different vehicles, the inner side 620 is typically designedor customized to fit on one or more specific vehicles (or vehicleconfigurations). Other embodiments of steering knuckles in accordancewith the principles of the present invention could therefore havedifferent inner side configurations to fit different configurations ofaxle and steering assemblies. Hence, when the steering knuckle is usedas a replacement, the inner side of the steering knuckle will typicallysubstantially replicate the inner side of the steering knuckle it isconfigured to replace.

Referring now to FIGS. 11, 14 and 15, the rear region 640 of thesteering knuckle 600 comprises an outwardly extending lug 642, having anopening 643 therethrough, for receiving the end of the steering arm 520of the steering assembly 512 (see also FIG. 10).

Referring now more particularly to FIGS. 13, 14 and 16, in the secondembodiment, the knuckle 600 also comprises three attachment areas 635,645 and 665. The attachment areas 635, 645 and 665 are respectivelylocated at the front region 630, the rear region 640, and the bottomregion 660.

In the second embodiment, the attachment areas 635, 645 and 665 aregenerally flat such as to easily accommodate the flat mating areas ofthe attachment elements or brackets used to mounted the track system 300to the vehicle 510. Understandably, as already mentioned, in otherembodiments, the attachment areas and the mating areas of the attachmentelements could be other than flat and have substantially complementaryconfigurations. Notably, though attachment areas 635 and 645 areunitary, i.e. a single attachment area, attachment area 665 comprisestwo distinct areas 665A and 665B in order to provide space for the lowerkingpin member.

Attachment areas 635, 645 and 665 are respectively provided withfastener-receiving bores 636/637, 646/647 and 666. In the secondembodiment, these bores are threaded bolt-receiving bores.Understandably, as already mentioned, in other embodiments, otherfasteners or attachment mechanisms could be used to secure theattachment elements to the attachment areas (e.g. dowels, pins, keys,clamps, etc.).

Understandably, as already mentioned above, in other embodiments, therecould be more, or less, attachment areas, and the attachment areas couldbe located elsewhere on the steering knuckle.

As in the first embodiment, by having these predetermined attachmentareas 635, 645 and 665, the second embodiment of steering knuckle 600allows the installation of a wheel-replacing track system 300 moreeasily and more solidly as the attachment areas 635, 645 and 665 providepredetermined locations on the steering knuckle 600 to secure theattachment elements needed to secure the track system 300 to the vehicle510. By providing these predetermined locations, the steering knuckle600 avoids the need to secure the track system 300 at inconvenient orweak locations on the vehicle 510.

Also, since the steering knuckle 600 is configured to support the tracksystem 300, it is typically reinforced (e.g. made bigger and/orthicker), more particularly near or around the regions where theattachment areas 635, 645 and 665 are located. Other regions could alsobe reinforced if necessary. The additional material allows the steeringknuckle 600 to support and sustain the additional load transmittedthereto by the track system 300. Also, in some embodiments, theadditional material allows the standardization of the locations of theattachment areas.

As can be seen from the foregoing description, different configurationsof vehicle or vehicles might need different configurations of steeringknuckles. Still, a steering knuckle in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention comprises one or more preconfigured attachmentareas, which can be reinforced with additional knuckle material, whereattachment element(s) used to secure a track system to a vehicle can beproperly secured. As steering knuckles come in a wide variety of shapes,the number, position and configuration of the one or more preconfiguredattachment areas on the steering knuckle, or on the periphery thereof,are consequently likely to vary.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 17-18, by havingpredetermined attachment areas 414, 416, 418 the steering knuckle 400allows the installation of a wheel-replacing track system 300 moreeasily and more solidly as the attachment areas 414, 416, 418 providepredetermined locations on the steering knuckle 400 to secure theattachment elements 420, 422 needed to secure the track system 300 tothe vehicle 510. By providing these predetermined locations, thesteering knuckle 400 avoids the need to secure the track system 300 atinconvenient or weak locations on the vehicle 510. According to thisembodiment, the angle 460 of the fasteners used for mounting the tracksystem 300 to the knuckle 400 may be any angle (from about 0 to about360) around the vertical axis of the kingpin 410 (see FIG. 17D) as longas the fastener trajectory is unobstructed by an element of the vehicle,such as the driving shaft. As such, embodiments of the knuckle 400 maybe configured with attachment areas 416, 418 having various, preferablyat an angle favoring the ease of mounting the track system 300 providedthat they have the proper reinforced knuckle 400 structure. An exemplaryembodiment of the knuckle 400 is shown in FIG. 17B where the slightlyangled front and rear attachment areas 416, 418 allow for an easierinstallation of the track system 300 to the knuckle 400 Still accordingto this embodiment, the attachment areas 416 and 418 could be at anangle or not. As such, the steering knuckle 400 configuration willdepend on the mating track system 300 attachment elements 420, 422 andthe initial size of the vehicle wheel. In this embodiment, theattachment areas 416 and 418 (see FIGS. 18A-C) were at 15 and 25 degreeangles about the vehicle axle. According to other embodiments, theattachment areas 416 and 418 may have rounded areas and correspondingcomplementary mating mounting elements 420, 422 with angled fasteners,such as angled holes or threaded openings for securing the track system.In such other embodiments, the mating attachment elements 420, 422 wouldpreferably have complementary mating configurations (i.e. convexattachment areas with complementary convex mating elements).

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 19-20 a steeringknuckle 450 is shown having attachment areas 452 and 454 located on thefront and rear portions 464, 466. The attachments areas 452, 454according to this embodiment are tilted at an angle 470 around thedriving axle while remaining substantially in a vertical planeperpendicular to the ground. The angle 470, is ranging from 15 to 165degree, preferably between 30 and 150 degree about the kingpin axis C-C(see FIG. 19D) This embodiment provides an alternate means of attachmentwhile generally requiring less reinforcement as the angled attachmentareas 452, 454 allow optimized utilisation of the lower portion 472 ofthe reinforced steering knuckle 450. Likewise, the angled attachmentsareas 452, 454 allow for an easier attachment of the track system 300.Still, according to other embodiments, the attachment areas 452, 454 mayhave rounded and have, for instance, angled holes or threaded openings474 for securing the track system 300. In such other embodiments, themating attachment element 458, 462 would preferably have complementarymating configurations.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 21-22, thesteering knuckle 550 comprises top attachment areas 552, 554 forattachment of track systems 300 parallel to the pivot axle. Contrary toprior art systems attaching the track system directly in the kingpinopenings (in the pivot axle), the present embodiment provides areinforced steering knuckle 550 able to vertically mount a track system300. The steering knuckle 550 preferably comprise a top protrusion 556reinforced over the area where the kingpin is located to providesolidified vertical attachment areas 552. As such, the knuckle 550according to this embodiment could allow installation of system similarto the known systems typically attaching in the kingpin holes withoutrequiring significant adaptations. According to this embodiment, onewith ordinary skills in the art may install previous vertically mountedsystems (not shown) in a safer and more secure way. Understandably asall embodiments disclosed herein, the present knuckle 550 allows theuser to mount either conventional wheels or tracks system 300 to thesame steering knuckle 550. The reinforced steering knuckle 550 providethe user with an alternative for using existing vertically mountedattachment track systems by only modifying the mounting member.

According to another embodiment, similar to the top attachmentembodiment (FIGS. 21-22), now referring to FIGS. 23-24, the steeringknuckle 700 comprise attachment areas 702 along the periphery of itsknuckle 700. In this embodiment, the orientation of an axis normal to atleast one of the fasteners is generally between 15 and 165 preferablyabout 30 and 150 degrees from the vertical axis or pivot axis. As such,this embodiment is configured for attachments 704 which may optimize theattachment area 702 by providing multiple attachment angles. Inaddition, this embodiment may be more versatile and provide betterflexibility for different track system 300 requiring attachment alongthe upper 710 or lower 712 region of the steering knuckle 700.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 25-26, thesteering knuckle 750 may comprise tilted attachment areas 752, in theupper portion of the knuckle 750. As such, the attachment area 750 maybe at an angle to allow the fasteners 770 to be inserted at an angle 766between 5 and 85, preferably between about 15 and 75 degrees about thepivot axis 768. In such an embodiment, the angle 766 of the fasteners770 securing the attachment area 752 and mating attachment element 754favors easier mounting process for the track system. In addition, insuch an embodiment, the front 772 and rear 774 portions of the steeringknuckle 750 are unhindered by the sometime bulky track system 300mounting members. According to this embodiment, the track system ismounted in a configuration that preferably vertically sandwich theknuckle 750 providing a secure mounting of the track system 300 to thesteering knuckle 750.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 27-28, the tracksystem 300 may be mounted on the lateral portion 802 of the reinforcedsteering knuckle 800. As such, according to this embodiment the steeringknuckle 800 may have the ability of securing the track system 300 to thelateral area 802. Understandably, to secure the track system using thelateral area 802, also referred to as the exterior face 802 of theknuckle 800, the knuckle must have an oversized configuration to insurethat attachment areas 806 and mating attachment element 804 are nothindering the rotating element 810 driving the sprocket wheel. Using thelateral side 802 for attachment may allow a less bulky steering knuckleperiphery 808 as the lateral or exterior face 802 is generally strongerthan its periphery 808. As such, the periphery 808, in such embodiments,would require less reinforcement as the periphery is not used asattachment areas. Understandably the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.27-28 is only one of a variety of laterally reinforced steering knuckle800 possible. As illustrated with the various previous embodiments, thelateral attachment areas 806 may have threaded openings or any othersuitable attachment anchors for securing the attachment element 802,preferably using fasteners 814 such as threaded bolts.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 29-30, thesteering knuckle 850 is attached primarily through attachment areaslocated on the under most surface 852, also referred to as the bottomsurface, of the steering knuckle 850. According to this embodiment, theinner side 854 of the steering knuckle 850 is configured to accommodatethe kingpin (also referred to as “pivot axle”) assembly of the rigidaxle 522 of the vehicle 510 through opening 856. In that sense, theinner side 854 comprises main recess 858. Main recess 858 is configuredfor accommodating the extremity of the axle 522 and the kingpinassembly. Main recess 858 also comprises an upper opening 856 extendingto the upper region 860 (see also FIG. 30B-C) and a lower opening 862extending to the lower region 864 (see also FIG. 30A). Upper opening 856is configured to receive the upper kingpin member (not shown) while thelower opening 862 is configured to receive the lower kingpin member (notshown). Additionally, in this embodiment, the knuckle is reinforced toallow for attachment of the track system 300 on the lower surface 852 ofthe knuckle 850. As such according to this embodiment, a steeringknuckle 850 could allow attachment of the track system 300 solelythrough the bottom surface 852, thus limiting any requirement for bulkyattachments on any of the front 870 or rear 872 sides and lateral areas874. Mounting element 880 is preferably secured to the bottom surface852 of the steering knuckle 850 using attachment areas, preferablythreaded openings 882.

According to yet another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 31-32 thesteering knuckle 900 has an integrated track system mounting element902. Such mounting member is generally, as shown in other embodiments(FIGS. 17-30), mounted to the steering knuckle using fasteners.According to this embodiment, the reinforced steering knuckle 900 couldbe provided with a mounting member 902 integrated to the steeringknuckle. As such, these embodiments comprise a mounting member 902integrated to the lower portion 940 also referred to as the attachmentportion of the steering knuckle 900. Accordingly, the knuckle 900 isdesigned with an integrated mounting member without hindering itsability to mount either conventional wheels or track systems 910. Insuch embodiment, the track system 910 is preferably mounted using anelongated member 906, such as kingpin. This kingpin 906 mountingconfiguration allow the track system 910 to oscillate around the kingpin906 axis thus allowing the vehicle to adapt to various terrainconditions. The track system 910, in this embodiment, is preferablymounted by securing the kingpin 906 inserted within the track systemopening 914 using a combination of mounting elements 904 andcorresponding fasteners 912. Furthermore, this embodiment comprises asimpler attachment mechanism which allows unhindered access to thesteering knuckle 900 and shaft. As such, the steering knuckle 900 of thepresent embodiment provides an alternative to existing knuckle mountingassemblies. As the mounting of a track system 910 to this steeringknuckle requires fewer attachment parts, this embodiment of the steeringknuckle may be produced at lower costs and improve the track system 910mounting process.

Still referring to FIGS. 31A-32H, according to this embodiment, thesteering knuckle comprises a main portion 930 and a lower attachmentportion 940 comprising the mounting member 902 generally locatedunderneath the main portion 930 and preferably integrated thereto.According to one embodiment, the lower attachment portion and mainportion may be unitary. The main portion 930 has an inner side 932configured to be coupled to a steering assembly to communicate asteering constraint around a vertical axis to the track system attachedthereto. The main portion 930 also has an opening configured to receivea power driving mechanism 928. The attachment portion 940 has at leastone attachment area 944, 944′, 944″, 944′″ which is configured to matewith an attachment element or mounting element 904, the attachmentelement 904 is configured to secure the track system 910 to attachmentareas 944, 944′, 944″, 944′″, via an attachment members 906, preferablyof elongated cylindrical shape, to allow for the preferredlongitudinally oscillating movement of the track system 910 during use.The attachment portion 940 preferably has a horizontally orientedportion 946 with an inwardly protruding portion 933 and an outwardlyprotruding portion 934. The inwardly and outwardly protruding portions933, 934 also preferably have downwardly extending protrusions 936, 938to define a channel 948 there between. The channel (see FIG. 32D) 948 istypically of rectangular shape. The channel 948 may be of any othershapes as to mate with the track system 910 and designed to receive thetrack system 910 therein.

Now referring to FIGS. 32A-D, according to this embodiment, theattachment areas 944, 944′, 944″, 944′″ are configured to receivefasteners along vertical axes Z-Z, X-X each of which are generallyoffset from the central vertical axis Y-Y of the knuckle or kingpinaxis. According to the present embodiment, the attachment areas 944,944′, 944″, 944′″ have at least one opening or slut 942, 942′, 942″,942′″ for receiving fastener therein. Now referring to FIG. 31B, thefasteners 912 are shown being inserted upwardly in the attachment areas944, 944′, 944″, 944′″ thus reversibly mounting attachment elements 906to the knuckle 900 and resulting in securing an elongated member 906pivotally mounting the track system 910 to the knuckle 900. Therefore,the knuckle 900 according to this embodiment, comprise an attachmentportion 940 channel 948 that also may act as a guide to limit the degreeof pivot allowed from the track system 910. As such, the aft portion 922and rear portion 924 of channel 948 will come in contact with the tracksystem support member 918 thus limiting the rotation or oscillationabout the pivoting member 906.

According to yet another embodiment, now referring to FIG. 33-34, asteering knuckle 950 is shown having reinforced attachment areas 952,954 located on the interior face 956 of the knuckle 950. Such attachmentareas 952, 954 may be configured for receiving complementary matingelements 960, 962. According to this embodiment, the attachment areas952, 954 may be located on the interior surface areas 956 of the knuckle950. This configuration may be desirable due to its ability for mountingthe track system 300 in a more secure configuration as the knuckle 950is attached in the same axis as the driving shaft. This attachmentsystem may provide stronger support for the track system 300 andpreferably be suitable for vehicle with increased horsepower Likewise,the rear attachments 952, 954 could be at an angle to optimize theconfiguration of the steering knuckle 950 in accordance with the designof the vehicle 500.

According to other embodiments, now referring to FIGS. 35-38 thesteering knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300 comprises attachments areas 1008,1208, 1308 located on its outer side or lateral face 1002, 1202, 1302.Such attachment areas 1008, 1208, 1308 are generally configured to matewith a preferably complementary track system mounting element 1004,1204, 1304. The track system mounting elements 1004, 1204, 1304 aregenerally secured to the steering knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300 usingfasteners such as threaded bolts 1012, 1212, 1312 received incomplementary, preferably threaded, openings 1014, 1214, 1314 of theattachment areas 1008, 1208, 1308 of the steering knuckle 1000, 1200,1300. The track system mounting elements 1004, 1204, 1304 may havevarious configurations. According to this embodiment, the track systemmounting elements 1004, 1204, 1304 comprise a knuckle mounting portion1018, 1218, 1318 which is secured to the knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300 and atrack support mounting portion 1010, 1210, 1310, operatively mounted toboth the knuckle mounting portion 1018, 1218, 1318 and the track system(not shown in FIGS. 35-38). The knuckle mounting portion 1018, 1218,1318 preferably comprises transverse openings 1016, 1216, 1316 alignedwith the attachment areas 1008, 1208, 1308, for inserting the fasteners1012, 1212, 1312. The track support mounting portion 1010, 1210, 1310preferably comprises a track mounting system such as a transverseopening 1026, 1220, 1326, for operatively mounting the track system tothe steering knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300. The opening 1026, 1226, 1326 isconfigure to receive the complementary track system mounting element(not shown). As such, the opening 1026, 1226, 1326 may also serve as thepivot axis of the track system. According to one embodiment, nowreferring to FIG. 35A-D, the pivot axle or opening 1026 is preferablysubstantially vertically aligned with the front axle of the vehicle. Yetaccording to other embodiments, now referring to FIGS. 37-38, the tracksystem mounting elements 1004, 1204, 1304 may be rotated about the frontaxle of the vehicle 510 as to position the pivot axle or opening 1226,1326 at a skewed angle 1240, 1340 from the vertical plane of the vehiclefront axle 512. According to other embodiments, the knuckle mountingportion 1018, 1218, 1318 and track support mounting portion 1010, 1210,1310 could be unitary.

As can be seen in FIGS. 35-38, the steering knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300also comprises a stub 1170, 1270, 1370 outwardly extending from theouter side 1002, 1202, 1302. The stub 1170, 1270, 1370 is configured tosupport the planetary gear assembly which drives the wheel hub 1020,1220, 1320 best shown in FIGS. 35C, 37B and 38B. The stub 1170, 1270,1370 preferably comprises a spacing portion 1022 and an engaging portion1024. To provide proper support between the planetary gear assembly andthe stub 1170, the circumference of the stub 1170, 1270, 1370 engagingportion 1024 is provided with axially extending splines 1172 (see FIG.36B). According to this embodiment, the attachment areas 1008, 1208,1308 and complementary mating track system mounting element 1004, 1204,1304 are configured to allow the unimpeded rotation of the stub 1170,1270, 1370 through the opening 1030, 1230, 1330. Accordingly, thespacing portion 1022 of the stub 1170, 1270, 1370 is preferably sized inaccordance with the thickness of the track system mounting element 1004,1204, 1304, more particularly the thickness of the knuckle mountingportion 1018, 1218, 1318. Understandably, the configuration of the stub1170, 1270, 1370 must match the configuration of the stub on theoriginal knuckle replaced by the knuckle 1000, 1200, 1300. In thatsense, other embodiments of steering knuckles in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention could be provided without stub 1170,1270, 1370 if the original knuckle does not have a stub or if thedriving system of the vehicle 510 does not require a stub.

According to another embodiment, now referring to FIGS. 39-40 thesteering knuckle 1400 comprises attachments areas 1408 located on itsouter side or lateral face 1402. Such attachment areas 1408 aregenerally configured to mate with a preferably complementary tracksystem mounting element 1404. The track system mounting elements 1404are generally secured to the steering knuckle 1400 using fasteners suchas threaded bolts 1412 received in complementary, preferably threaded,openings 1414 of the attachment areas 1408 of the steering knuckle 1400.The track system mounting elements 1404 may have various configurations.According to this embodiment, the track system mounting elements 1404comprise a knuckle mounting portion 1418 which is secured to the knuckle1400 and a track support mounting portion 1410, operatively mounted toboth the knuckle mounting portion 1418 and the track system (not shownin FIGS. 39-41). The track system mounting element 1404 also comprisesan opening 1430 for the stub 1470. The knuckle mounting portion 1418preferably comprises transverse openings 1416 aligned with theattachment areas 1408, for inserting the fasteners 1412. The tracksupport mounting portion 1410 preferably comprises a track mountingsystem such as a transverse opening 1426, for operatively mounting thetrack system to the steering knuckle 1400. The opening 1426 is configureto receive the complementary track system mounting element (not shown).As such, the opening 1426 may also serve as the pivot axis of the tracksystem. According to one embodiment, now referring to FIG. 39-40, thepivot axle or opening 1426 is preferably substantially verticallyaligned with the front axle of the vehicle. Yet according to otherembodiments (not shown), the track system mounting elements 1404 may berotated about the front axle of the vehicle 510 as to position the pivotaxle or opening at a skewed angle from the vertical plane of the vehiclefront axle 512. According to this embodiment, the knuckle mountingportion 1418 and track support mounting portion 1410 are unitary.According to other embodiments, the knuckle mounting portion 1418 andtrack support mounting portion 1410 may be made from separate members.

According to another embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG.39-40, now referring to FIGS. 41-42 the steering knuckle 1500 comprisesattachments areas 1508 located on its inner side or interior face 1528.As such, by attaching on the inner side 1528 of the knuckle 1500 thetrack system mounting element 1504 allows unimpeded rotation of the stub1570 preventing any interaction between the mounting element 1504 andthe wheel hub 1520. Yet, the inner side 1528 attachment is configured toprevent hindering the steering arm 514 of the vehicle 510.

While illustrative and presently preferred embodiments of the inventionhave been described in detail hereinabove, it is to be understood thatthe inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employedand that the appended claims are intended to be construed to includesuch variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.

1) A steering knuckle for use with a steering assembly of a vehicleequipped with a track system, the knuckle comprising: a) a main portionhaving an inner side configured to be coupled to a steering assembly tocommunicate a steering constraint around a vertical axis to a tracksystem attached thereto and an opening configured to receive a powerdriving mechanism; b) an attachment portion, located underneath andintegrated to the main portion, the attachment portion having at leastone attachment area configured to mate with an attachment element, theattachment element is configured to pivotally secure the track system tothe attachment areas with fasteners. 2) A steering knuckle as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the track system is pivotally mounted to the attachmentportion using an elongated member for allowing the track system to pivotlongitudinally about the elongated member. 3) A steering knuckle asclaimed in claim 2 wherein the attachment portion comprises a groove forat least partially receiving the elongated member. 4) A steering knuckleas claimed in claim 1, wherein the attachment portion comprises aninwardly protruding portion having at least one attachment area locatedthereto. 5) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 1, wherein theattachment portion comprises an outwardly protruding portion having atleast one attachment area located thereto. 6) A steering knuckle asclaimed in claim 1, wherein the attachment portion comprises an inwardlyand an outwardly protruding portion and wherein at least one of theinwardly and outwardly protruding portions have a downwardly protrudingportion defining a longitudinal channel for receiving the track system.7) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of theattachment areas has at least one opening defining a vertical axis beinglaterally offset from an axis along a kingpin securing the steeringknuckle to the vehicle. 8) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 1,wherein the attachment portion further comprises an inwardly and anoutwardly protruding portion and wherein at least one of the inwardlyand outwardly protruding portion projects laterally outside of the mainportion. 9) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 3, wherein at leastone attachment area is located on either side of the groove on both alaterally inwardly protruding portion and a laterally outwardlyprotruding portion. 10) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 1,wherein the attachment area is configured so that the attachment elementcan be upwardly fastened thereto. 11) A steering knuckle as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the main portion and the attachment portion areunitary. 12) A vehicle comprising left and right steering assemblies,the vehicle comprising a pair of steering knuckles as claimed in claim 1respectively mounted to the left and right steering assemblies. 13) Asteering knuckle for use with a steering assembly of a vehicle equippedwith a track system, the knuckle comprising: a) an inner side configuredto be coupled to a steering assembly to communicate a steeringconstraint around a vertical axis to a track system attached thereto; b)an opening configured to receive a power driving mechanism; and c) aperiphery comprising an inner region inwardly facing the vehicle and anouter region facing outwardly from the vehicle; d) at least oneattachment area located on said outer periphery being configured to matewith at least one attachment element, the at least one attachmentelement being configured to secure the track system to the attachmentarea; wherein at least one of the inner and outer regions comprises atleast one attachment area. 14) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim13, wherein the attachment areas of the inner region are located aboutthe periphery. 15) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 13, thesteering knuckle further having a stub, wherein the attachment areas ofthe outer region are located about the stub and parallel thereto. 16) Asteering knuckle as claimed in claim 13, the steering knuckle furtherhaving a stub, wherein the attachment areas of the outer region surroundthe stub. 17) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 14, wherein thestub is outwardly spaced to prevent hindrance between the attachmentelement and a wheel hub mounted to the stub. 18) A steering knuckle asclaimed in claim 13, the steering knuckle further having a stub, whereinthe outer region has an outwardly protruding portion surrounding thestub. 19) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 13, wherein theattachment area has fastener receiving slot, and wherein the fastenersreceiving slots have a lengths equal to the thickness of the knuckle.20) A steering knuckle as claimed in claim 13, wherein the inner regionscomprises attachment areas surrounding the opening for receivingfasteners inserted from the inside out. 21) A vehicle comprising leftand right steering assemblies, the vehicle comprising a pair of steeringknuckles as claimed in claim 13 respectively mounted to the left andright steering assemblies.